The president has taken important steps to increase the capacity of the mental health system in the U.S. With the support of Congress, SAMHSA can build on its leadership and success to help all Americans -- including those with SMI -- lead healthy, full, and productive lives in their communities.

Research has shown us that intervening early at the individual, family, and community level can delay or prevent the on-set of mental and substance use disorders. We also know that these can be treated, and individuals with these conditions can lead healthy productive lives.

Like ''diabetics,'' ''alcoholics,'' and epileptics,'' ''schizophrenics'' can usefully indicate a group of people with a common condition, and some individuals with schizophrenia refer to themselves this way.